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Free for Haul Friday, Volume #386
Share your recent beauty purchases or rediscovered favorites in your stash (for those on low/no-buys!), chit chat about weekend plans, and learn a little more about each other!
Let's Chat!
Share your own answers in the comments!
- Haul: Urban Decay Reverb Topcoat (the one I was missing), Sephora Coconut Micellar Water, 4x MUFE Metal Palettes (smaller size)
- Weekend plans: Here’s me hoping for a weekend free of tech issues…
- What’s your ideal vacation?: A warm locale (but not too humid), good restaurants, and lots of time at the spa. I’ve never done a spa day; I want to but can’t bring myself to shell out for it, so I usually just get a massage as my treat.
This week's doggo photo/video...
Share your pet photos to the Temptalia Pets flickr group!
Haul: This is actually a continuation of last week’s haul. LANCOME was in gift at my Bergners so I picked up three Color Design 5 color eyeshadow palettes: French Ni
I think your comment got cut off 🙁
Mellan, you’re as cute from the back as you are from the front! xoxo
Haul:
Got a few good things this week. Warning: I am berzerkers happy with the combo of the Chanel and Sisley products I got this week, and how they work together on me. Just know I am going to wax poetic. 🙂
1. This is what I did last Saturday. Being in the market for a few new shadow combos, I went to the Chanel counter at Bloomies (no eye makeup on) to spend time and get some advice. Without considering, what’s trending, or what’s new, I took my time and talked over which quad would work nicely. We decides to test Tisse Dimensions. I was blown away at how nice it looked, so that came home with me. Has yet to disappoint.
A few samples that came home with me that day led to two more purchases:
2. Chanel Le Blanc Light Creator Brightening Makeup Base. J’adore this stuff! I was not in the market for a primer, because I have been happy with my Becca Backlight (whatever it’s called). This blows it out of the water. In combo with the Sisley foundation below, this is the best combination on me, ever–and I mean ever.
3. Sisley Phyto-Teint Expert Foundation.This foundation over the Chanel base is magic. Truly, never have seen my skin look better. It’s so light, yet provides coverage that is flawless. I had no knowledge about Sisley foundation at all, so this was an unexpected find. It goes 12 hours easy with no breakdown in quality at all.
4. Chanel Rouge Coco Gloss Opulance (754). I was in the market for a rich, red gloss and this was the shade I was looking for. The Bloomies SA helped me find it. She was great.
5. <MUG Highligher in Luster. Wanted a more rosy, gold-y, coppery choice, and this is a nice one. I like it a lot. Very, very nice. Very nice price point too. Our very own Wwendy was the enabler on the purchase. 🙂
Weekend:
Nor’easter coming through! Ugh. Snow and bad weather at least through tomorrow. Guess we’ll turn attention to clearning up! Exciting!
Perfect Vacation:
A big European city. Paris, in particular with a few days of side trips. I could move to Paris tomorrow.
What do you like so much about the Chanel primer, Linda?
Hi Christine,
I’ve never been truly convinced about primer. I used the Becca because I liked the “illumination.” But the Chanel product provides the light I was looking for. It’s naturally glowing (at least on me). It makes me feel I look good, without being anything overt (hard to describe). And, for once, I think it does add to the smoothness and longevity of the foundation.
I was totally surprised, not expecting it, as that product was no where on my radar.
Awesome! Thank you, Linda!
How lovely that you were able to discover new HGs!
Haul: I was trying to be on a no-buy/low-buy this week. Considering my USUAL hauls, I did ok-ish…
4160 Tuesdays: MrsGlossMadeMeDoIt Eau de Parfum; Silk, Lace & Chocolate Eau de Parfum; 9 ml Sprays – Shazam, Centrepiece, Doe in the Snow, New York 1955, Tokyo Spring Blossom Eau de Parfums. Had the opportunity to order from the UK without the normal 40 pounds shipping cost so I HAD to break my low-buy.
Birchbox ($6.30 off): TokyoMilk Dark Femme Fatale Eau de Parfum Scent Wardrobe. Too good of a deal to pass on.
Laura Geller: Diamond Dust Illuminating Mates Duo LE. I had a feeling it would be an early sell out (which it was) so I bought it. (Not shipped yet)
MAC: Extra Dimension Blush (Fairly Precious, Into the Pink). I was weak – should have this Monday.
Ofra (30% off): Lipstick (Amethyst), Long Lasting Liquid Lipstick (Wonderland), Skin Sculpting Wand (Sunset – backup), Foundation Trial Pack (Light). Super discount and I wanted to try the foundation – just shipped.
Saks (10% off): R+Co Vicious Strong Hold Flexible Hairspray. This got great reviews and I’m still searching for my HG hairspray.
Ulta (1/2 off): IT Brushes Airbrush Smoothing Foundation Brush #102 (2). I like IT brushes and they were a great price.
*justifies the purchases anyway* LOL
Weekend plans: Meeting my Mother for lunch on Saturday.
What’s your ideal vacation?: Just planned a girls weekend in Annapolis for April. Love little weekend getaways. Haven’t had my “ideal” vacay. I have sooooooo much leave and really need to. My ideal vacay would involve seeing a country as a local; shops, dining, countryside – but also museums and historic sites but again not in a touristy way …. Not interested in cruises or beaches (hate the sun).
Haha! Yes, I’d say for you, this was certainly a lower buy 😉
That’s a pretty good low buy Michele – everything on a really decent sale price. Well done!
And I agree about the vacation place – I would loathe a cruise as I hate the sun too.
Haul: Placed an order on Urban Decay’s website and picked up Sidecar eyeshadow (it was the first one I finished on the Naked 1 palette and I missed having it but it’s not sold on Sephora’s website)…also picked up the liquid lipstick and 24/7 lip pencil both in the shade 1993.
Weekend Plans: spend time with friends and probably start a meal plan 😀
What’s your ideal vacation?: My ideal vacation is spending a couple of days in a big city (shopping, sightseeing, trying the local cuisine) and then spending a couple more days relaxing at a beach with an adventure or two thrown in…thankfully I have gotten to experience this type of vacation when I went to Costa Rica a couple of years ago (spent the first two days in San Jose, the capital and then spent the next few days at a rainforest/beach national park area)
Nice job finishing up an eyeshadow in the Naked palette, Jennifer!
I love the color of Sidecar, but the pan in my (very old) Naked palette is sooo glittery I haven’t found anything that will keep it in place. What do you wear under yours?
Haul: KTUopia tickets….
I’m thinking about getting the It Cosmetics power with Ulta 21 days of beauty. I’m not sure yet because March has been super spendy for me.
Weekend plans: Get my taxes done, clean, and sleep!
What’s your ideal vacation?: I would like to have one that I actually relax. Realistically I would be okay with a longer vacation like the one I just had, a week in Vegas. I had one main attraction I wanted to do each day and then I would do other things depending on my mood.
Good luck finishing up your taxes, Monica!
Your Vegas vacation sounds good – I like that you had one thing specifically planned each day but then had freedom to do whatever the rest of the day!
Hauled at last. Will only note things that came. B’lish: WG #2, azelaic acid and buffet from the ordinary. For oily/dehydrated/aging buffet seems wonderful, bec it is light, virtually all actives in almost no carrier medium. Doubt that there’s any clog potential at all. And it has Syn-ake. Promising. Haven’t tried AA yet. One thing at a time, by itself, then add one compatible from stash, etc… Ulta: Thanks, Michele, for the Nyx Faux swatches on your IG. May haul more, but got 4 whites and 2 blacks. Liking the smoke/pastel lavender gray a lot. Pretty decent on the waterline, though that is a total matter of personal chemistry. LQ saint and sinner, both Mauve. This mauve is a bright, pinky one, nothing understated about it. A Butter London oil formula shadow …mauve. (Surprise!) it was far more grayed than in store, but very dark day. Unsure if I’ll snag more before U21 is over. That issue IS very muted and one and done. Clearly would work as a base, too…but it might be rather one note with the other colors in the range. There seems to be an underlying similarity of hue on some dimension. A julep stick shadow, putty. Warm, pinky Taupe. You know how Sephora secret boudoir looks as if there’s some pink, and it swatches/applies more towards the yellow beige? The putty does that on me. Comes out a warm light yellowed Taupe neutral. Another that would work as a one and done. Really easy to apply, direct, finger, or brush. Haven’t seen how it functions in a look. Both of those are barely there style, so not everyone’s bag, but def work friendly and late to work friendly as well. Some Nubian heritage vetiver and shea moisture raw shea bath products. Slight order errors; no biggie. Prob forgot s.t. But, thanks to readers, went to the Rack and got Mary/Cindy/Betty and last summer’s tantego eye pencil trio. The teal seems to have gone off a bit, but how do we see anything, when the sun has been out 1 day in the past 10, with no sign of let up? Awaiting Memebox, etc. has anyone hauled the Dose of Colours Mauve palette? Not to be one note, or anything. But you have to go somewhere, if you are not a coral or warm pink person…
Plans: work on Patti walking on leash, maybe. Night job. Shoveling, if required. More hauling.
Vaca: wish list is BC and the Canadian Rockies. Sturgeon fishing. Also Michigan UP. But given the safety climate, glad I live in a beach town.
Ooh, let us know how you like The Ordinary! 🙂 The item I wanted to try sold out before I could try to buy.
How is Patti doing so far? Is she enjoying her new life?
Nice haul! I’m hoping that when it releases Ulta gets the new foundation The Ordinary is coming out with.
Just saw a recorded Andrew Zimmern show on the UP. Had no clue until I saw it – looks like a wonderful place for a real getaway!
If you ever make it there, you must be sure to visit Taquamenon Falls, Seney Wildlife Refuge and Whitefish Point which is the closest lighthouse to where the Edmund Fitzgerald sank killing all aboard. There is an awesome little museum and you can take a boat tour of the Pictured Rocks National Park. It’s pretty stunning, just don’t plan on swimming. The water is usually below 40 degrees even in the middle of summer.
Awww, how is little Patti settling in in her new home?
I’m also looking forward to hearing about the Ordinary – I was considering buying a bunch at the release, but several things I wanted sold out and now I think I’ll be smart and wait until I’m finishing up my current stock! Buffet is at the top of my list, also want to try that caffeine eye cream…
I brought Retinol 2%. Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C serum from The Ordinary site. I love the retinol! Haven’t used the others yet but I’m impressed at the performance and price.
Thanks for all the comments on the ordinary. I’m replacing a lot of skincare that does the exact same thing if this works.
Haul: I’ve actually been doing a MAJOR purge of my collection the past few weeks and promised myself I wouldn’t buy anything but essentials until it was finished (which is why I haven’t been on the friday posts lately).
This week I picked up a new body lotion (OGX with argan oil), St Ives green tea face scrub, a couple Burt’s Bees lip balms, and Burt’s Bees coconut foot cream.
Weekend plans: finally finishing the bathroom!!!!! Also sitting down and going over our game plan for moving and figuring out what all we have to do before we can list our house for sale. The townhouse we’re moving into is half the size of our current house so we have to sort everything we own and decide what’s coming and what’s getting donated. Closing date is April 28th!
What’s your ideal vacation? Something where I get to spend a lot of time with nature and/or in museums.
Nice job purging your stash, Alice! That always feels so good 😀
Good luck on your upcoming downsize and move – always tough!
My sympathies for trying to decide what to keep, what to donate and what to chuck away… an awful task.
Haul: Help me, I’m weak… I ordered the Laura Geller Diamond Dust set and it should come in today.
Weekend plans: Cleaning up my house as we are getting the interior painted next week
What’s your ideal vacation?: I have two ideal types, really- relaxing beach vacation, and exciting adventure/ exploration vacation where we go to a new city or country. I like to alternate!
Hope you enjoy your new Laura Geller set, Julia! 🙂
Oh lucky you! My LG hasn’t shipped. If you think about it, could you follow up and let us know how it is?
Yes, mine shipped lightning fast! I have to say, I am impressed – it has a VERY intense pink shift, and the texture is great, silky smooth. No white base. Until now my only LG highlighter was Ballerina (although I also go an adorable mini Gilded Honey in my order) and I think this one has a noticeably better texture- it seems more finely milled. I swatched side by side with Pat McGrath Skin Fetish 003 Nude, and the shift color is quite comparable – I’d call it a dupe. I do wish companies would stop using words like “opalescent” and “holographic” when it’s a singular color shift, but it’s definitely a great product. The stick is much more subtle, but it’s still really nice. I would LOVE to see different shift colors in the same formula!
Oh that is good news! My order finally shipped. I have no clue why but for some reason every single order I’ve placed lately seems to get held by the retailer! I had to call one retailer (Ofra) to find out why they were shipping collection release orders when my order was placed a full day before their collection even went live! I think I’m joining you on the highlighter train btw. I have soooo many and find that I keep getting sucked in to buy more. But agree, if the formula is that good, it would be great if LG released other shades as well. Thanks for the follow-up!
Julia, lol, another highlighter I bet!
I need an intervention ?
Haul: Tarte’s Make Believe In Yourself Palette, Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder in Dim Light (I love it!),
Weekend plans: Mostly working on school work. I study fashion design so my weekends are full of lots of sewing! My fiance is out of town for the weekend so I’ll probably do some cleaning since he won’t be around to make any more mess!
What’s your ideal vacation?: I love going to pedestrian friendly cities where you can explore on foot all day. I live in a very commuter oriented city so I love to take advantage of not having to drive everywhere.
What are you hoping to do after design school, Paulina?
I’m really interested in sustainable fashion, so hopefully I will be able to work for a sustainable fashion company or start my own one day! I also love pattern making and I wouldn’t mind being a pattern maker starting out while I learn how the business side of the fashion world works.
That is so cool!
Thank you! 🙂
Haul: It Cosmetics Naturally Pretty palette
Weekend plans: Driving up to DE for the last time for a long time! Hoping for really good quality time with family & friends.
What’s your ideal vacation?: somewhere coolish warm (75 no humidity, slight breeze, sunny) with lots of luxury and unlimited food; no adventure, no plans. Like Booth on Bones once said, “I want to come back stupid.” I probably won’t ever get to indulge because I feel weird about decadent leisure in a needy world. Womp.
I hope no tech issues either! I haven’t experienced anything on Temptalia on my end.
You must be relieved to get a break from your driving trips, Joyce! 🙂
Good to know you haven’t had any issues!!
HAUL: Bobbi Brown Dual Ended Cream Shadow Stick in Greige/Midnight. Really nice product, super easy to use and convenient to travel with. The Greige color has a nice sparkle to it with no fallout. I really wish this product wasn’t LE! I might go back for another one, possibly even the same color.
WEEKEND: Taco+Tequila night!
IDEAL VACATION: My ideal vacation is to a place with a lot of cultural or historical significance where I explore (and eat!) as much as humanly possible in the time frame I’m there. I honestly like a go-go-go kind of trip that is jam packed with sights and experiences. I went on a “relaxing” vacation to an all-inclusive beach resort a few years ago and I have NEVER been so bored in my entire life!
The dreaded LE! 🙁
How do you take your tequila? My husband loves a good margarita!
I only have tequila in margaritas, straight up no salt! I’m more of a vodka person but make exceptions for taco night 🙂
That’s what I think of beach resorts too – I would be bored out of my mind without visiting museums, shopping and wandering around. Totally understand what you mean Ginny!
Halfway through the trip I finished the book I brought and was like heck, what do I do now?? Never again lol.
Oh Ginny! How awful, I hate not having a good book to read on vacation – I really do sympathise with you now!
Haul: Tarte Make Believe In Yourself: Eye & Cheek Palette & Shape Tape Contour Concealer in Fair came early this week! Kind of wanted the Tarte brushes but I wasn’t sure of the actual brush quality compared to the eBay ones I’ve been eyeballing, instead of paying the $51 for the Tarte set. lol
Weekend plans: …Still tackling the armour… I was hoping to be done it and tackling my belt/waist cincher right now.
What’s your ideal vacation?: Do something, anything really! I don’t like taking a full week off and doing nothing but chilling. lol
Yay for early packages! How are you liking the new palette?
I do like the shadows in it, but I can see why people are frustrated by the dry texture of the shadows now that so many brands have put out more buttery shimmer shades.
In this case dry does not equal under pigmented at all. lol
It reminds me of the MUFE Diamond Artist Shadows – very firm, dense, but they take a different technique (similarly, stuff like Extra Dimension, Dual Intensity, Gelee, etc.).
That really it, firm but packed with colour. I’m actually surprised the highlighter wasn’t closer to most of the Geele formula on the market. I seemed drier than the shadows in comparison. lol
•Haul: I received a trial kit from Luminance Skin Care (they are doing a free 3 pc set… just pay for shipping) and I’m trying it out. Loving it so far and will probably need to order full size by the end of the weekend lol.
•Weekend plans: Finishing up the last touches of house renovations… trim touchup, missed paint spots, etc. Not thrilling, but it’s finally coming together!
•What’s your ideal vacation?: Cool weather, mountains, cabin by a creek. A hammock would be a nice touch as well 🙂
So glad you’re enjoying your new skincare, Angie! Skincare is so tough to figure out sometimes!
Congrats on being almost done with your house renovations!
Hauled lots of k-beauty recently, I’m finally fully embracing the absurdly long skincare routine. So far, it seems like they really are on to something! Aside from skincare, just a lonely buxom lipgloss from the ulta sale. Hoping to have a pretty calm weekend catching up on all of tv shows that I’ve gotten behind on.
You must share this absurdly long skincare routine with us sometime! 🙂
Okay, I know I said I was on lock down but I did quietly haul a couple indie loose shadows ($5 each with a 15% off coupon on top of it) and I replaced some glitter base for loose shadows as well (I’ve missed wearing my Sugarpill glitters and I need a base again!)
My ideal vacation? Right now is a week in Wichita, Kansas. It’s where I grew up and I lived there pretty much all of my adult life up to this point. My family and friends are there and I’m feeling homesick (I moved to a new state about 8 months ago). If I can spend a week in Wichita with my friends and family, and visit my old haunts and eat at my favorite restaurants, that would make me happy.
Awww! I hope you can visit your hometown, at least for a little bit, sooner rather than later, Sarah!
Do you have a favorite glitter base?
I used to use Too Faced’s glitter base, but now I’m going to give Fyrinnae’s Pixie Epoxy a try! I’ve read a lot of great reviews about it and I like to support indies when given the chance. 🙂 Let’s hope it’s as good as the reviews say it is!
Aaaah, that tail looks so soft!
*Haul – Bitter Lace Beauty Rainbow Prism Highlighter (This sold out in a nano-second last year, but I caught the re-stock. It’s beautiful to look at, love the strong, irridescent shimmer, the rainbow colors are so fun to play with, and they have good staying power too. Will definitely go back for a full sized one in purple), Too Faced Love Blush in Baby Love, Ulta Steal for $13 (love the color and super cute packaging)
*Update -I tested all the shades in the Jeffree Starr Androgyny shadow palette, and OMG, it’s a total winner, love love love!. The darkest blue took patience to apply and blend, but all of the other shades were awesome, wonderful satins/shimmers and some of the best bold mattes out there, comparable in quality to the ones in KVD Metal Matte. Great pigment, great staying power with primer on my oily lids. Thanks again for the rec, Michele!
*Weekend- been cray busy week at work, so need to relax. Hang out at mall, treat myself to swatchfest, maybe get a massage or haircut
*Ideal vacation – drop the kid off at my parents, then we run away to Paris, where we will feast on delicious food, visit museums, browse shops, and check out makeup
Enjoy a nice, relaxing weekend filled with swatches!!
Katherine I am interested in the Jeffree Starr Androgeny palette but the colors don’t call to me so I’ve held off.
Wow, I think those bold colors would look absolutely stunning on you! Bummer, but maybe wait for his next palette? The Androgyny palette features his newly re-formulated shadows, which are awesome, so I’m hoping he will come out with more kits, or even singles. Maybe one of the future releases will call to you 🙂
Sounds like my vacation of choice too.
Haul:
Laura Gellar Pink Butter cream from Ulta’s 21 Days sales. Also picked up Lorac Greige Matte lip and Essence Satin Coral and Satin Love Blushes. Then went to MAC and picked up Baby Don’t Go Pro Longwear Blush and Pale Rose and Pink Pearl Pop lipsticks. It’s Spring Break and my daughter and I took a trip to Chicago for some shopping:)
Weekend plans: no plans. Maybe rent a few movies and clean a bit more 🙂
Ideal vacation :
Warmish, museums and good food and coffee. A nice hotel with comfy beds and a nice pool/whirlpool:)
How is the LORAC Matte Lip formula, Erica?
For a matte, it feels like nothing on your lips. Color is pretty. I haven’t tried it out for a full day yet. So far so good!
For your vacation, go to Paris. Food and museums covered. Stay in the Hotel Danube of Rue Jacob! 🙂
I have tried to leave this comment three times on my phone, but keep having issues with the website and losing my (lengthy!) comments. I give up: I’m moving to my computer. This Is my continuation of last week’s haul.
Lancôme: Bergner’s was having their Goodwill Sale and LANCOME was in gift, so I picked up several items. I got three Color Design 5 pan eyeshadow palettes: Beige Brulee, French Nude, and Lavender Grace. Lavender Grace has been a favorite of mine for a couple years and it really brings out the green in my eyes. I have a new obsession with neutral, understated eye shadows (who knew this could happen to me?) so I gave Beige Brulee and French Nude a whirl. Both are primarily matte, which is another departure from my norm. I have worn Beige Brulee several times and I like it. I have not yet tried French Nude, but I’m sure it will be fine. I also picked up my beloved Grandiose Mascara (my favorite mascara), two Le Stylo Waterproof eyeliners in Fumee (the BEST grey eyeliner, bar none, in my opinion), two Dual Finish powder foundations (for my daughter who has worn Dual Finish for a decade–it’s perfect for skin types that are not oily or have shiny t-zone), and a Juicy Tube in some pretty spring color. I was going to get a sample of the Teint Idole 24 hour foundation to try, but ended up purchasing the bottle. It’s funny, I have been working behind the LANCOME counter for seven years and never once tried this foundation. I thought it would be too drying for my “mature” skin. I have combination skill with an oily t-zone that requires blotting several times a day. This is the first foundation that has lasted all day on me. I didn’t even know my other foundations weren’t lasting all day on me until I started using this one two weeks ago and saw the difference. This foundation is still going strong after a 10-hour day at work followed by a sweat fest at the gym! I cannot feel it on my skin and it provides good coverage. Best purchase of the month!
Chanel really caught my attention this year with their spring collections. This month I purchased the Coco Harmonie blush, and two eye shadow quads in Codes Subtils and Codes Elegants. All three purchases are just lovely. The blush doesn’t budge no matter how many hours I wear it. Are all Chanel blushes like this???
Fragrances: This month I picked up Chanel Chance Eau Tendre fragrance and the body cream, which I have had before and love. I also picked up Jo Malone’s Basil an Neroli, which is just a touch too sharp and green by itself, but is NIRVANA when layered with Blush Peony and Suede. This combination is my new favorite! For my husband I purchased Jimmy Choo Man and Mont Blanc Legend Spirit, both woody fragrances with lavender, which must be why I love them! My Scentbird fragrance this month was Pinrose’s Guilded Fox, described as Spiced Hot Cocoa with notes of cocoa, buttered rum, and vetiver. Guilded Fox is entirely out of my comfort zone, but I love it! My husband calls it the “sexy fragrance!” I also got Raymond Matt’s Maiaday, a floral woody fragrance (definitely my comfort zone) with lilac, citrus and Linden tree. I love this one too!
Weekend plans: Today is my 27 wedding anniversary. Celebrating this and my youngest child’s 20th birthday. I am officially done with teenagers!!!
Ideal vacation: Shopping in a major city!
Oh no!! I’m so sorry about that, Tammy 🙁 We still have things we’re trying to figure out since we moved to a new host.
Your daughter has real commitment–a decade to a single product speaks highly of it!
Thanks for mentioning your difficulty leaving comnents using your mobile phone. I am too and thought something was wrong with my phone.
Hi Christine, using an Android phone, I can start to write comments, then application slows down and pauses, then I have trouble regaining the cursor, and ultimately the keypad just disappears, and is hard to get back. I have to exit out of the comment altogether.
I will have my team look into it on Monday!
Same thing has been happening with my Android also but I thought it was just my phone updating or something. Hmmmm.
TraceyE, Tammy, mine is doing the SAME thing! Has had me mad at my phone company, but now I know it isn’t that.
Happy anniversary! xoxo
High five sister! Just this week I too discovered what it really means to find a foundation that lasts ALL day. The new Sisley for me is the BOMB. I had no idea. You can see my comments above. EL Doublewear served me well this past year, but nothing like this. For me, the worst have been MUFE, Armani Luminous Silk, and Nars. Finally, I found something.
Happy anniversary!
Linda, I suspect you and I have different skin types because I love Armani’s Luminous Silk foundation and Becca’s Backlight Primer wins the award for worst product I tried in 2016. I used the Backlight Primer again just a few weeks ago on a date with my husband, and I truly wanted to run into the ladies room and wash the stuff off my face. I guess I’m just too shiny naturally to tolerate that specific product, it looks and feels greasy on my skin.
However, we do share some of the same passions for eye shadows and brushes. I just got my first order of Chikuhodo brushes from Japan yesterday!
Hi Tammy,
It’s like we’re 180. It took me how many decades to learn that not every product will work for me — high or low end? Part of the fun — and the frustration — is finding what works. Foundation has, for me, proven the hardest to pin down.
I haven’t cracked open the full Sisley product yet. I still have samples. So, in the meantime, I’m going to sample the Lancome foundation. Not sure I’ve ever tried it. It could be some savings if it works. I’ll report back.
If you find yourself near a Chanel counter, test the Rosee primer to see what you think. I didn’t know it was the luminosity I was looking for until I stumbled upon it. Becca now seems a bit off to me by comparison.
So glad baby is well. What an adorable love!
I must give that Lancome foundation a try – just love their 5 pan eyeshadows and I have a few myself. Beige Brulee is a good one.
Happy Anniversary and how is the newest member of your household doing?
Little Foxy is just too sweet and wonderful!
Happy Anniversary.
Lancome’s Teint Idole has been my go-to foundation for most of my adult life. I love the beige-y shade vs. yellow. I also use Charlotte Tilbury’s Light Wonder. Both are full coverage and long lasting.
Congrats on your anniversary and your daughter’s milestone birthday!
Happy anniversary!
That Lancome foundation is the bomb. I got a sample of it from Sephora, and immediately bought the full sized.
Haul: Heimish Dailism Coralic Eye Palette (Korean brand, LE) and Josie Maran Argan Black Oil Mascara (still looking for my HG, sigh …I’m actually starting to think the issue might be putting eye cream/skincare too close to my lash line and then not setting the area with powder because I can’t find a pencil eyeliner that works for me either).
Weekend Plans: Watching the new Beauty and the Beast
Ideal Vacation: Just had one! In the mountains with some spa time, good eats, and activities.
Fingers crossed that you can find your HG mascara!
I have found that certain foundations/base products/skincare can make eyeliners wear better or worse, so it could be true for mascara!
That tail is right! ? I love to play with my cat’s tails because they’re so fluffy, and Clarissa’s is so long that I can tickle her ears with it!
Haul: The very day I read your review of Essence Satin Love and Satin Coral, I bought both! Got to use Satin Love yesterday. It is really a wonderful blush shade, especially since it was only $2.99, plus BOGO. Also bought Laura Geller Pink Buttercream. My personal pan seems cooler, lighter than the store tester….so we’ll see. Plus, a Rimmel Black-brown brow pencil with the brush on the cap that looks a thousand x’s better than what Ipsy had sent me.
Weekend plans: Food shopping, meeting on Sunday, hair, maybe nails? This Revlon Gel Envy has been wearing like iron. The shade, Win Big, has garnered many a compliment!
Ideal vacation: A warm, balmy island! I’ve GOT to see and feel the ocean again sometime soon. So yeah; beaches, lagoons, rain forest, and fabulous seafood eatery’s! The ocean gives me such a deep sense of calm and helps recenter me.
Hope you’re able to make that trip to the ocean soon 🙂
Haul: I bought
Anastasia’s stick foundation, which is too pink for me. despite being labeled as a yellow undertoned shade 🙁
Sephora Brand Matte perfection powder foundation, Which is my perfect shade. I love this powder!!
And I splurged and bought 3 new MUFE artist shadows!! I got: D-826 a deep glittery purple, D-868 a iridescent glittery pink, and D-716 a glittery peach!! Can you tell I was loving the Diamond finish? 😉
Weekend plans: My auntie is in town from Saskatoon, so we’re having a surprise family get together at Grandma’s house!!! She currently has 3 different types of aggressive cancer, so she isn’t able to come visit us as often anymore. So we’re all very happy and blessed to have her here!!!
Ideal Vacation: My dream is to travel within Canada. Our country is SO huge and beautiful!!! I’v only ever been to the west coast, and visited British Columbia, and Quebec, and of course my own province of Ontario!! I’d love to go more east!!!
Oh no, so sad to hear about the Stick Foundation being the wrong shade 🙁 The shade range has been confusing!
Haul: MAC had a $10 off $80 sale so I picked out MAC Viva Glam 3 and Velvet Teen Velvetease Lip Pencil. The lip pencil is the perfect shade I was trying to recreate from a runway look I saw but it’s really a terrible formula! Patchy yet Super emollient?? What even. Also caved and bought the Armani Lip Magnet in 602. I’m very excited and hope the formula works out for such a dark Colour.
Weekend plans: finally a restful weekend! We’re doing a pizza party for my grandma’s birthday so that should be nice.
Perfect vacation: lots of contemporary art; a hip young city where I can walk everywhere. Good food.
So bummed to hear that the lip pencil isn’t working well for you, Kimberly!
Haul: I bought the Dr Brandt vitamin C serum because they had a sale on their website. It’s the best vit C serum I’ve tried so far so I jumped on the occasion!
Weekend plans: bbq ribs for dinner on Saturday night with friends!
Ideal vacation: it’s hard to say because I like both to relax and to discover, so I would want an urban environment some days and quieter time in nature other days. So let’s say a slow-paced road trip in a beautiful region, sunny but not too hot, that offers nice hikes, and pretty villages and towns to visit.
Nice! Dr. Brandt’s not cheap, so on sale is always good!
Haul: Tarte Make Believe In Yourself Eye & Cheek Palette; deluxe sample of Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Patina; OCC RTW Lip Tar in St. Sebastian. I haven’t got to try out anything yet, though. I’ll try to do that today. I ordered MAC Metallic in Zerocool, but it hasn’t arrived yet.
Weekend plans: My son’s birthday is today, so I’m going to pick him up some gifts. Hubby’s birthday was Tuesday, so tomorrow we’re going to do cake for both of them, and go out to a nice dinner.
What’s your ideal vacation?: Just me and hubby, finally getting to visit Europe. No emergencies from home; nothing major going wrong. Amazing sites and museums to visit and good food.
What kind of museums are your favorite to visit, Rachel?
Happy birthday to your son and husband!
They had great b-days, thanks.
I love to visit almost any kind of museum. Art museums are probably my favorites, though.
Haul: I didn’t submit anything last week since I had a trip to Nordstrom planned before triple points ended, but I picked up more than I had initially planned. I got a lot of Dr. Dennis Gross products after his office staff did an in-store peel (at full percentage) at the Nordstrom in Pentagon City. I grabbed a new Alpha-Beta Hyrdoxy pad jumbo box at regular strength (Renee suggested switching strengths day to day), the Pro Facial Steamer, C+ Collagen Serum, Ferulic and Retinol Overnight Serum, Hyaluronic Marine Mask and Ferulic and Retinol Peel set. I also grabbed a lot of Tom Ford – Paradise Lust cheek duo, Make Bronze cream shadow and powder, Fire Lust skin illuminator, Sheer Lip Balm in Fathom, large Bronzer in Gold Dust, Lipstick in Cherry Lush, Illuminating Primer and the #13 angled shadow brush. Lastly, I grabbed the Armani Him/Her Lib Balm in #6, SK-II Facial Clearing Lotion and SK-II Cleansing Oil and the Malin & Goetz Acne Treatment Lotion. I developed a cystic breakout (first in ages) and I can’t see my dermatologist until Wednesday. The Malin & Goetz is sulfer-based and while it’s still horrendous, the pain is gone at least. Cortisone shot coming to the rescue soon though!
Weekend Plans: Keeping my hands away from my face, first and foremost! Husband is off golfing as of tomorrow, so I’ll be living the lush single life this weekend. Only plans so far are to make a return to Nordstrom (product fail) and going to an Origins event. I got my first box from Influenster and it turns out to be products I’ve used and abandoned for better things. I can’t imagine I’ll ever get another box if I don’t go, so I’ll keep an open mind.
Ideal Vacation Spot: The beach! I could sit on the beach and read a book for days and days. We’re dying to go back to Hawaii and see some of the other islands. I’ve been to two, but Maui was a work trip and I spent more time flying there and back than I did on the island. It was just so terribly wrong…
I nearly forgot my other skincare acquisition! I picked up the PMD personal microdermabrasion tool and really enjoyed the first use. The directions say to wait 5 to 6 days in between treatments, so I’ll do another round this weekend. It wasn’t at all irritating to my skin and it felt really smooth afterward. We’ll see how well it works long-term!
How do you like the Giorgio Armani Lip Balm, Lea?
How frustrating to have a cystic breakout after awhile – those can be SO painful! Hopefully, your derm can help with the rest!
Hi Christine! I enjoy the Armani lip balms a lot; I have four of the six shades and keep them spread around my handbags, work area, etc. The tints are subtle, but I like that it gives you a little extra boost of color.
Cystic outbreaks are the absolute worst and it was a cluster to compound the fun. Too much stress in my life right now I think; my routines haven’t changed at all. I did pick up the OTC Differin gel, but it’s the .1% instead of the .3% that I was using. I’m going to see if that’s still available via Rx next week. On a positive note, the Malin & Goetz acne treatment is extremely impressive. I got it on Monday and have used it nightly on the outbreak and the pain and redness was gone by Friday. The large bump is still there, but for less than a week of non-pharmaceutical treatment, I’m extremely impressed. I may not be able to get a cortisone shot when I go to the Derm at this rate. I doubt he’ll want to if it looks like it’s healing quickly. Highly recommend for anyone dealing with acne – adult or otherwise. I just recommended it to my friend for her teenager son.
Thanks, Lea! 🙂
I’ll have to give the Malin & Goetz a try. I like Mario Badescu’s Drying Lotion for the most part, but it’s good to try other things. Like you, don’t get them often – usually stress/hormone related for me!
Haul: The Becca Backlight Priming Filter for half off during the Ulta sale. The 50% off price was about what I think I’d pay for it at all so that worked out. I ain’t paying almost $40 for a primer!
Weekend plans: Just some peace and quiet if my neighbors newly acquired guitar will allow for that…
What’s your ideal vacation?: I think too many different types. I loved wandering my way all over Vietnam, but I also loved spending Christmastime in Paris. I think for me a mix of historical stuff, nature stuff, good food and maybe some pamper time (which I’ve never done as my mom always sneered at anything like that) would be my favorite combo trip.
Christmas in Paris sounds amazing! 🙂
OMG that was probably one of my fondest childhood memories. I was only 6 at the time so everything seemed even more magical. It was also one of the very rare years where it snowed in Paris ON Christmas Eve. And it was great to see that side of the family (I didn’t see them until I was 20 after that and haven’t seen them in 9 years now…) That was also before the recession so I doubt I’ll ever get a repeat, but I’m glad I got the opportunity when I did. Need to work on my French though just in case!
Mellan body looks so long on this picture. How’s he doing with his diet?
Haul: Ulta 50% off Laura Geller Baked N Brighten blushes in Pink Buttercup and Tropic Hues , I wore Pink Buttercup yesterday and it faded away to nothing after 2 hours. LOL I’m copying Temptalia with clocking makeup wear time. I reapplied heavily and it faded but at least was visible. Not sure if I’m going to keep these blushes if they don’t last on me. Almost all types of blush last a long time on my skin, not sure what’s up. Maybe because I don’t wear foundation? Also got 2 of the Bare Minerals Gen Nude Matt liquid lipsticks. I tried XYZ and my lips totally disappeared, lol. I have a hard time with neutral nude lip colors unless they have pink or orange undertones. So envious of people who can rock the nude lippies!
Weekend Plans: My mom is coming to visit soon so I’m decluttering and reorganizing my bedroom and guest room .I have to return the Surratt blush in Cantaloup that I brought from Sephora online since it’s too light for my complexion. And that blush is pretty small for $32.
What’s you ideal vacation?: Travel to a foreign country that has friendly people, great views and good food.
I really enjoyed when we rented a cabin in the North Carolina mountains. The woods was so peaceful and surreal. The cabin was cozy and beautiful. We went white water rafting, horse back riding, speed boat ride on beautiful green water and took a train ride up in the mountains. So relaxing and pretty!
North Carolina is beautiful (never been, but I watch far too much HGTV, lol) — definitely can imagine a cabin in the woods there!
He seems to be doing well on his new diet! He seems hungrier than usual, but he’s not losing weight (maintaining), so that’s the only “concern”!
Lovely tail, Mellan!
Haul, not much but I did get some new stuff.
From Essie, Rock the Runway and Model Clicks gel nail polish. I am impressed by how long these last on my nails as most polishes only last a day or two, I do have a lot of issues with my nails. These last up to five days, and I think Rock the Runway will alst even longer.
From Max Factor, eyeshadow in Vicious Purple, it’s more lilac, I think, a sheer, shimmery lilac, lipgloss in Dazzling Fuchsia and Skin Luminizer Foundation in Light Ivory. All of these were on sale.
From Mavala a nailpolish in Dancing Queen, I find it hard to resist shimmery nailpolishes on sale 🙂
From ABH, not on sale, this one, but worth the cost, I think, Liquid Lipstick in Sad Girl. I love it and I can wear it without my lips feeling dry like and horrid.
I also got some hairproducts, a root colour spray from Schwartskopf and a lilac colour spray from L’Oreal that actually shows up on my dark (coloured) hair.
I don’t have any palns for this weekend, how boring.
Ideal vacation. Hard one to answer. I like to do a lot of things when on vacation, skiing if it’s a winter vacation. Spend time at a nice beach and swim in a nice warm ocean. Visit cities, visit museums and old buildings. I also love experience nature, not taking long hikes or go camping but seing wonderous things like The Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland or The Cliffs of Moher in The Republic of Ireland. I think my favourite to date must be South Africa. Exciting nature, warm oceans, beaches, animal life and cities. Not many old buildings, but really good food. I wanted to move to Cape Town when we were there.
It sounds like you have had some really tremendous vacations, Helene! 😀
I have, yes.
Now that I have the dogs, I don’t go far on vacation, I don’t want to leave them and I don’t want to put them in the cargo (I know they aren’t just shoved in with the luggage, but still).
I do want to visit the US again and see the nature, somehow go from coast to coast and visit all the places you read about or see in movies. It would take some time, probably longer than the visa would allow.
Oh, I’m terrified of putting Mellan in cargo! I rarely travel for similar reasons, though there is a large part due to the blog (nobody can “fill in” for me when I’m gone), but definitely as I do not like leaving Mellan behind either!
I’m so glad I’m not alone not flying because of the dog. People seems to think I’m worrying about stupid things, well, except my son, he forbids me to fly with them 🙂
I worry a lot over the noise and being on the tarmac before/after a flight 🙁 Don’t think flying is in Mellan’s future!
Haul waiting on my Tatcha Essence to be delivered. Enjoying my Lancome Glow Subtil Silky Creme Highlighter. in glowing lights. I am waiting for a delivery of Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Triple Correction Eye Serum & face serum. And his Ferulic & Retinol face cream. Also ordered Nike Air Max 90 Ultra SE Sneaker I purchased them for 1/2 price at Nike.
I haven’t been on a Vacation in so many years I can not remember my last one but it isn’t a big deal for me but my dream vacation would be a beautiful spa where you are pampered with lots of massages and facials. Two things I never have done.
1/2 priced Nikes — total score 🙂
Haul: I took advantage of one of the Ulta beauty days and bought a backup of the Becca Backlight Primer and one more Urban Decay blush in Indecent. From Sephora I decided I had to try one of the Milk Eye Pigments in Gig, a not too warm bronze color. Also, the Hourglass Lip Stylo in Creator and another Veil primer.
Weekend plans: Get our taxes done! It shouldn’t take very long but it certainly is a task subject to procrastination. Since the weather is supposed to be nice we will most likely spend a few hours on yard and garden work too. I’m sure there will be some relaxation time built in as well!
Ideal vacation: This question made me realize how much the answer to that question has changed over the years. In my twenties it would have been a great beach trip. Then in my thirties and early forties, a great city trip including lux hotel, historic sites, and good food. Now, a quiet, secluded cabin on a lake where my pets are welcome and clocks don’t work!
Love Urban Decay’s blushes! Such a good formula.
Hope you got a chance to enjoy your garden!
Mellon is still a cutie, no matter what side he shows!
Haul: Nothing really much – just trying out the Maybelline Brow kit – but I think it’s not really great as it doesn’t last long on my brows.
Weekend Plans – from last Sunday till yesterday, we were the “plague” household – Olivia developed gastro last Sunday and one by one (except my husband) everyone has had it. It’s fairly mild and only lasts for day but you are feeling drained and unwell for a few days afterwards…. so now it’s food shopping and cleaning. Just taking it easy too.
Ideal vacation: nowhere hot/humid or overly sunny for me! Europe in late autumn, Tasmania is also a beautiful place to visit too. Definitely the US, with all those stunning mountains and vistas. New York is on my list as is Canada.
Oh, that is too bad for the whole family! 🙁 Hope you all feel back to your usual selves soon!!
Haul: The Ordinary skincare products. Order 1 came this week and order 2 is en route. Really enjoying the 2 items (The Buffet, Matrixiyl) that have been incorporated into my regular routine. I can’t speak more highly of the consultation I had with a Beautylish rep who uses the products and the recommended routine that she proposed and refine during our conversation. Boston Store 15% off: Picked up a Chanel #13 shadow contour brush (to use as an eyeliner brush) and lots of skincare and mascara samples (yay!)
My bigger haul was for Koats For Kids. The Boston Store is concluding its Goodwill Sale and I picked up winter jackets and outdoor (ski?) pants for kids and teens for at least 75% off, maybe more. No jacket cost more than $15 and the ski pants were $8 once an extra 30% off was applied on top of all discounts. My spouse and I donate new coats annually to Koats for Kids annually and I was over the moon about my purchase today and the waiting hats, scarves, and mitts that will join them from Lands End.
Weekend plans: Meeting a dear friend for brunch to catch up, then working on tax info and cleaning the place up for a special “surprise” guest visiting next week. : )
What’s your ideal vacation: That’s a tough question. It includes a good climate, good food, and interesting things to do/explore. It could include family. My ideal vacation doesn’t need to be exotic or even far away but usually includes special times with special people.
So glad to hear that you’re enjoying both of the Ordinary products you’ve tried so far. I hope to try the brand sometime myself!
EL Advanced Night Repair 1.7 oz – limited edition red bottle at Macys (not sure where else it may be also).
Nice! 😀
Haul: Clinique Lip Pop in “Melon Pop”, Clinique Happy Perfume (used to wear this years ago & recently smelt a sample & the smell really does make me happy!) Essence Luminizing Face Palette- thought this was supposed to be a highlighter palette, but then figured out its actually a dupe for the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette
Weekend plans: Family get togethers
What’s your ideal vacation?: Vegas!! Was there about two years ago & adored it
Aww, Happy!! I haven’t smelled that in so long!
Haul: I have 3 dresses from Target on the way. I also got most of my Korean skincare stuff. So far so good! I think my favorite product of far is a toss up between the Klaris Toner and the Benton eye cream.
Weekend: Already started on the weekend. My plans got a little dashed, but I made the best of it and took Elroy swimming. Got the shopping done this morning and now I’m catching up. Not sure if tomorrow will be anything special or not.
Vacation: Almost any type of vacation would be good right now. I haven’t had one since 2011. Yup, way too long. Money is now even and steady, so hopefully that will change.
Oh, I bet Elroy had a blast swimming! Mellan loves to swim, but he is a little crazy about it, lol.